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Dear Shiloh Family,

Every year Christmas morning came to the O'Neal house. Every Christmas morning there were presents under the tree, and requested gifts from Santa magically appeared. And every December 25th we ripped through wrapping paper that revealed expected surprises. It took me a while to realize how hard the elves worked and the sacrifices Mr. and Mrs. Clause made to make those magical gifts appear.

Sunday, you will enter the church campus and experience some wonderful new surprises. We are blessed with a new parking lot, new handicap parking spaces, the beginnings of a beautiful memorial flower garden, and soon-to-be-restrooms adjacent to the FLC.

I encourage everyone to enjoy with pride. However, please remember that these aren't early Christmas presents that magically appeared. These additions are made possible because of some generous contributions, and from the systematic giving (tithes and offerings) of our entire church body. God bless you all for listening to the Lord and opening up your hearts to the needs of your church.

Consequently, even with the large donations and regular, weekly giving, the work doesn't complete itself. It comes because of tireless efforts of Pastor David and others in our church body. Pastor David has coordinated all the projects, and some of you have assisted in many ways. We are blessed to have a Minister of Students who is not only a Godly man, but is also knowledgeable in building management and construction. More importantly, a man who is willing to do whatever is needed in the work of the Lord. I am honored to stand in ministry beside such a true servant. Thank you, my brother!

It has been a trying week for many of our church families. I have been in and out of funeral homes all week, and there is more to come. However, as I traveled back and forth from funeral home to church campus Wednesday night, it was a blessing to see numerous servants from our church family faithfully ministering at both places. It was especially encouraging to observe our youth as they exemplified the Love of Jesus to their hurting friends.

John 13:34-35: 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. NKJV

I am also looking forward to Sunday evening. Our praise team will be leading worship at the annual North Georgia Baptist Associational worship service. This year's meeting will be this Sunday, October 5th at Ft. Oglethorpe First Baptist. It will begin at 6 PM. Steve Foster, Evangelism Catalyst for the GBMB will be the guest speaker. I encourage everyone to attend. Let's support our praise team and make a good showing for our church.

Wonderful words are promising, but wonderful work fulfills the promise.

God bless you all,
Pastor Derrell